Hello, my name is Simon Lightman, and I am standing as a Green Party candidate because I believe local politics should be rooted in care, honesty and long-term responsibility.

Full statement

I want to help build a council that listens properly to local people, protects the places we share, and makes decisions with future generations in mind. Too often, communities feel that things are done to them rather than with them. Whether the issue is housing, roads, public services, sewage, green spaces or support for young people, local people deserve a stronger voice in shaping the future of their area.

My professional life has been built around education, sustainability and helping young people become active citizens. I have worked with schools, charities and community organisations to support youth leadership, environmental action and more meaningful participation in decision-making. I believe those same principles matter in local government. We need practical, joined-up solutions that improve everyday life now while also preparing our communities for the challenges ahead.

If elected, I would work for greener, fairer and more accountable local government. That means:

• Protecting nature and improving community infrastructure
• Supporting families and young people
• Pushing for better environmental standards
• Making sure public money is used ethically and responsibly

For me, standing for the Green Party is not just about the environment. It is about building communities where people feel heard, where decisions are made transparently, and where the future is treated as something we are responsible for together.